6
R.H. Charlier and Chr. P. De Meyer
Chapter I : Coastal Zone Management
1 Introduction
The concept of "coastal zone" or "coastal fringe" is thus rather vaguely defined. It
varies not only according to the geographical area, but also according to the point
of view of the different specialists. Here, the term is understood to include the
inner part of the continental shelf, the coastline and a hinterland a few kilometres
in width. No attempt is made here to establish precise limits.
The coastal zone is the interface between the atmosphere, hydrosphere and
lithosphere. It constitutes a high energy zone with very active and complex
dynamics, in which the Quaternary record shows clearly a history of considerable
instability. It is logical to assume that this instability is going to continue,
probably even to increase because of human interference.
The dynamics of the coastal zone are in many cases a situation of delicate
equilibrium, easily affecled by processes, natural or man-induced 1.
Therefore, solving land-use problems in the coastal zone requires, more than in
other regions, careful planning 2. This needs prior knowledge of the area to be
exploited. Thus, research and inventory must precede land- and resource-use
planning, so that sensible exploitation of resources and conservation of the
environment are ensured 3.
2
The Use of the Coastal Zone
Undoubtedly, an economic conflict exists between those who champion the total
utilization of the coast for industrial, mining and commercial expansion, and the
partisans of a !'balanced" occupance between, on the one hand industry, and on
tile other tourism and habitat interests 4.
R.H. Charlier and Chr. P. De Meyer
Chapter I : Coastal Zone Management
1 Introduction
The concept of "coastal zone" or "coastal fringe" is thus rather vaguely defined. It
varies not only according to the geographical area, but also according to the point
of view of the different specialists. Here, the term is understood to include the
inner part of the continental shelf, the coastline and a hinterland a few kilometres
in width. No attempt is made here to establish precise limits.
The coastal zone is the interface between the atmosphere, hydrosphere and
lithosphere. It constitutes a high energy zone with very active and complex
dynamics, in which the Quaternary record shows clearly a history of considerable
instability. It is logical to assume that this instability is going to continue,
probably even to increase because of human interference.
The dynamics of the coastal zone are in many cases a situation of delicate
equilibrium, easily affecled by processes, natural or man-induced 1.
Therefore, solving land-use problems in the coastal zone requires, more than in
other regions, careful planning 2. This needs prior knowledge of the area to be
exploited. Thus, research and inventory must precede land- and resource-use
planning, so that sensible exploitation of resources and conservation of the
environment are ensured 3.
2
The Use of the Coastal Zone
Undoubtedly, an economic conflict exists between those who champion the total
utilization of the coast for industrial, mining and commercial expansion, and the
partisans of a !'balanced" occupance between, on the one hand industry, and on
tile other tourism and habitat interests 4.